The original American Girl dolls, introduced by the Pleasant Company in 1986, were designed to be much more than mere toys. Each doll came with a detailed backstory, set in a specific historical period, complete with a series of books that told her story. These narratives aimed to educate young girls about different eras of American history, providing both entertainment and valuable lessons.
Here are the six original dolls and the historical contexts they represent:
1. Kirsten Larson (1854)
Kirsten Larson, a pioneer girl from Sweden, represents the westward expansion of the United States during the mid-19th century.
Her story begins in 1854, as she and her family emigrate from Sweden to the American frontier in Minnesota.
Through Kirsten’s eyes, young readers learn about the challenges and adventures of pioneer life, including the struggles of adapting to a new land, facing harsh weather, and building a new home.
Kirsten’s narrative highlights themes of bravery, adaptability, and the importance of community.
2. Samantha Parkington (1904)
Samantha Parkington is an orphaned girl living in New York City during the Edwardian era, around 1904.
Raised by her wealthy grandmother, Samantha’s story explores the stark contrasts between the lives of the rich and the poor during the Progressive Era.
Her friendship with Nellie, a servant girl, exposes Samantha to the harsh realities faced by many children of the time, including child labor and lack of access to education.
Samantha’s tale emphasizes social justice, the value of kindness, and the impact of social reform movements.
See also: Transformation of Samantha American Girl Doll Hair
3. Molly McIntire (1944)
Molly McIntire represents the World War II era, specifically 1944. Living in a small town while her father serves as a doctor overseas, Molly’s story teaches kids about patriotism, resilience, and the significant role that ordinary citizens played in supporting the war effort.
4. Felicity Merriman (1774)
Felicity Merriman’s story is set in Williamsburg, Virginia, on the eve of the American Revolution in 1774. As the daughter of a patriot shopkeeper, Felicity finds herself in the midst of the growing conflict between the American colonies and British rule. Her adventures include acts of defiance against British authorities and learning about the principles of freedom and independence.
5. Addy Walker (1864)
Addy Walker’s story is a powerful depiction of the African American experience during the Civil War, starting in 1864. Born into slavery, Addy escapes with her mother to the North, seeking freedom and a new life.
Her journey is fraught with challenges, from the dangers of escape to the struggles of adjusting to life as a free person in Philadelphia. Addy’s narrative addresses themes of family, freedom, and the fight for equality and justice, providing a poignant look at a critical period in American history.
See also: List of 9 American Girl Doll Controversies You Should Know
6. Josefina Montoya (1824)
Josefina Montoya is a young girl living in New Mexico in 1824, when it was still a part of Mexico, before becoming a U.S. territory. Her story explores the cultural heritage and daily life of Hispanic settlers in the early 19th century. Josefina faces with the loss of her mother so she learns to run a household.
See also: American Girl Dolls with the Josefina Mold
The original American Girl dolls, introduced by Pleasant Company in 1986, are much more than toys; they are gateways to understanding pivotal moments in American history. Each of the six original dolls—Kirsten Larson, Samantha Parkington, Molly McIntire, Felicity Merriman, Addy Walker, and Josefina Montoya—embodies the spirit and struggles of their respective eras.
